2025 NAACP Image Awards: 5 Directors Who Deserve a Spot on Your Watchlist
The NAACP Image Awards 2025 nominees for Outstanding Directing in a Motion Picture prove that visionary storytelling is alive and thriving.
From historical epics to personal narratives, these five directors have crafted films that captivate, challenge, and inspire. Jeymes Samuel, nominated for “The Book of Clarence,” brings his signature style to a bold reimagining of biblical times, while Malcolm Washington, up for his directorial debut with “The Piano Lesson,” carries on a family tradition, breathing new life into August Wilson’s timeless play.
These filmmakers aren’t just making movies—they’re shaping culture. Tune in to the NAACP Image Awards 2025 live on February 22 at 8 PM ET on BET to see who takes home the honor. In the meantime, get familiar with the full list of nominees for Outstanding Directing in a Motion Picture.
Jeymes Samuel / The Book of Clarence
Known for his bold and stylish approach to storytelling, Jeymes Samuel delivers another genre-bending masterpiece with “The Book of Clarence.” Blending historical fiction with spiritual exploration, Samuel infuses his signature energy and an all-star cast into this reimagined biblical-era tale.
Malcolm Washington / The Piano Lesson
Following in the footsteps of his legendary father, Denzel Washington, Malcolm Washington proves he’s a filmmaking force to be reckoned with in his feature directorial debut, “The Piano Lesson.”
Based on August Wilson’s beloved play, the film brings the Pulitzer Prize-winning story to the big screen with a powerhouse cast for a deeply moving exploration of family, legacy, and identity. Washington’s direction breathes new life into Wilson’s words, solidifying his place as a filmmaker to watch.
RaMell Ross — Nickel Boys
After earning an Oscar nomination at the 91st Academy Award for his documentary “Hale County This Morning, This Evening,” RaMell Ross transitions into narrative filmmaking with Nickel Boys, an adaptation of Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel.
Tackling themes of systemic injustice and resilience, Ross’s documentary roots shine through in his meticulous attention to detail and emotionally gripping storytelling.
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Reinaldo Marcus Green — Bob Marley: One Love
Reinaldo Marcus Green, fresh off his success with King Richard, brings reggae legend Bob Marley’s life to the big screen with “Bob Marley: One Love.”
Known for his ability to craft emotionally rich biopics, Green masterfully captures the spirit and revolutionary impact of Marley’s music and activism.
Steve McQueen — Blitz
Oscar-winning director Steve McQueen returns with “Blitz,” a powerful World War II drama set during the London Blitz. Known for capturing human resilience in history, McQueen delivers another visually striking and emotional story of survival and community,
Watch the NAACP Image Awards live on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 8:00 pm ET/PT on BET.
